When it comes to protecting the paint, the Marquette Golden Eagles have a rich history of sophomore shot-blockers making their mark. In fact, three of the top 13 single-season block performances in program history belong to second-year players—a testament to the impact these young big men can have.

Leading the pack is Jim McIlvaine, whose sophomore campaign ranks as the third-best shot-blocking season ever at Marquette. While that record might seem untouchable, consider this: Theo John came within just 16 blocks of McIlvaine's mark during his own sophomore year. What makes John's 70 blocks even more impressive is that he played only 48.7% of the team's minutes, averaging just 19.7 per game. He posted a top-20 national block rate that season. If a future sophomore can match that rate while playing 73% of the minutes—a 50% increase—the math suggests a 105-block season is within reach. That would not only break McIlvaine's record but also rewrite the history books.

Chris Otule is another name on this list, holding a share of the 11th-best season (tied for 13th overall). But perhaps the most underrated sophomore block season belongs to Luke Fischer. In 2014-15, Fischer swatted 53 shots, but context is key: He had to sit out Marquette's first eight games due to transfer rules from Indiana. Once on the floor, he averaged 2.2 blocks per game. If he'd played those early games at that rate, he would have added roughly 17 more blocks—putting him at 70, tied with John for second-best in MU sophomore history and eighth overall.

The Golden Eagles' tradition of rim protection continues to grow, and with each new season, there's always a chance for the next sophomore to rise up and make their presence felt in the paint.